Jewel of the Northern Cape in fading due to pollution

Abstract

Around 400 hain size, Kamfers Dam is an endorheic saltpan situated about 4 to 6 km outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape Province. It is fairly shallow, with a maximum depth of less than 4 m. The wetland, a recognised National Heritage site, is home to a variety of waterfowl, but is dominated by flamingos, which attract tourists and generate valuable economic income for the area. The pan is one of only four breeding areas in the world (and the only one in South Africa) where the Lesser Flamingo breeds. These beautiful birds, which are classified as ‘near threatened’ can be seen in their flocks feeding in the pan. Outside South Africa, flamingos can be found frequenting the pans of countries such as Botswana, Namibia and Kenya were they filter planktonic cyanobacteria together with shallow littoral diatoms as well as a wider range of cyanobacteria and diatoms in temporary wetlands. They feed by wading in shallow water with their bills upside own and filtering the tiny cyanobacteria from the surface. They also eat small crustaceans such as shrimps and other invertebrates.

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